New England Architecture 101 – Federals
The Federal house is sophisticated and stately.

Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanSometimes also called “Adam”-style, Federal homes look like Georgians but flaunting the confidence and style of a newly independent nation. Symmetry still reigns supreme; however, glasswork gets an upgrade, with larger panes in windows, semicircular or elliptical fanlights over doorways, and vertical sidelights that make entrances appear larger.
Time Period: 1780-1820, locally to 1840
Characteristics: Sophisticated and stately, with generous use of curves and glass
Famous Example: Otis House (the home of the Historic New England Library and Archives) in Boston, Massachusetts
Where to Find Federal Homes: Prosperous port cities such as Salem and Newburyport, Massachusetts; Providence and Bristol, Rhode Island; and Portland and Wiscasset, Maine.

- Windows: Window panes are bigger and thus fewer, at six per sash.
- Roof: Low-hipped roofs and paired chimneys are common.
- Doorway: Semicircular fanlights and vertical sidelights are a Federal hallmark.